Douluo Continent: I, Huo Yuhao, am the Master of Spirit

Chapter 389 Kong Deming: "Let the Body Sect come."

Meanwhile, the Sun and Moon Empire, which the ghost messengers called a demon's lair, was a scene of bustling activity with gongs and drums. From the borders of the empire to the central city of Mingdu, every place was decorated with lanterns and banners, in preparation for the new emperor's ascension to the throne.

It's even more lively here than during the Spring Festival. The sound of firecrackers in the city can be heard even by the beast king living deep in the Jingyang Mountains.

Compared to Douluo Three Kingdoms, the Sun Moon Empire preferred these explosive gadgets that came from the Tiandou Plain. In just one year, these things had become an indispensable part of the holidays.

This may be related to the prevalence of Soul Masters in the Sun Moon Empire. From children to the elderly, no one in the Sun Moon Empire dislikes explosions. To date, they have developed countless Soul Tools in pursuit of bigger, stronger, and louder explosions.

"It's truly a scene of prosperity."

On the streets of Meido, Shirou Emiya couldn't help but exclaim in amazement as he watched children chasing and playing with their toys around him.

Compared to three years ago, the atmosphere in Mingdu has improved a lot. After the purge ended, a large number of nobles associated with the royal family died quietly.

Because Xu Tianran had no intention of hiding, the old emperor and many ministers tacitly approved of this purge. In the old emperor's view, the infighting among the imperial clan was tragic, but it also proved that Xu Tianran was very suitable to become emperor.

How can one wield the power of an empire without being ruthless and merciless? Moreover, the old emperor was powerless to stop Xu Tianran. He was too old and was merely clinging to life with his cultivation. He could already foresee his own death.

After the imperial family and nobility were purged, many people in the Ming capital became much more obedient, fearing that if they were on the purge list, they would be shot eight times in the back and commit suicide.

Otto took over all the black or gray businesses left behind by the deceased nobles, such as casinos and brothels, and transformed them in a suitable way.

The casino was transformed into a large arcade, with many game machines brought in. Otto used the magic network to create "Karen Fantasy" and set up a leaderboard on the screens of all the arcades in Mingdu. His score was always number one.

The game section of the Magic Network allows private game development, which is why Huo Yuhao doesn't have much energy to make games. In his view, building a platform is always more profitable than making games.

The platform deducts 25% of the game's revenue, which is quite generous.

As for brothels, gladiatorial arenas, and other illegal industries, they were demolished to build welfare homes or schools. Otto gave the prostitutes and gladiators household registration and arranged for special personnel to teach them how to gradually resume their lives.

Karen will be coming here soon, and Otto will make sure she sees a chaotic and corrupt Mingdu.

He wants to transform Mingdu, and even the Sun and Moon Empire, into what Karen likes.

Kallen came here mainly to target Silver Moon Douluo Kong Deming.

In Otto's mind, the day of the coronation ceremony would be the day Kong Deming would perish. In order to ensure that all of Kong Deming's soul tools would be disabled, Otto decided to send Kallen over.

Kallen's strength is that of a Soul Douluo, and her martial soul is the Oath of Judah. ​​With all eight rings activated, the Divine Grace Barrier of her martial soul can seal and suppress all energy, including kinetic energy and bioelectricity, for ten minutes.

Even if Kong Deming carried a lot of soul tools, they would be destroyed in an instant. Perhaps his Silver Moon Divine Light Shield could hold out for a moment.

However, judging from the current timeline, Kong Deming's Silver Moon Divine Light Shield is at most a half-finished product.

"It would be strange if there wasn't excitement as the new emperor is about to ascend the throne."

With his hands in the pockets of his black coat, Kiritsugu Emiya gazed at the distant palace bathed in golden sunlight, his dark eyes radiating a sense of sacredness and majesty that rose in the hearts of all who looked upon it.

"By the way, if nothing unexpected happens, the Xilu City Research Institute will also be participating in this grand event, and Ilya and Miyu will be there."

Emiya Shirou paused, unable to resist asking:

"is it safe?"

"Will there be any danger? Should I go and protect you secretly?"

Kiritsugu Emiya smiled and ruffled Shirou Emiya's orange-red hair, saying:
"Don't worry, the Silver Dragon King is leading the team, she will keep an eye on things."

Upon hearing the name Silver Dragon King, Shirou Emiya felt relieved. Gu Yuena's identity was no secret to Root; everyone knew that there was at least one god-level powerhouse among them.

"That's it, that's good."

"With her here, no matter how chaotic things are here, it won't affect Ilya and the others' safety."

Emiya Shirou was quite confident in the Silver Dragon King, a god-level powerhouse. During the battle at Star City, the opponent had indeed displayed an extremely terrifying suppressive force.

The fact that even the Sea God Tang San didn't dare to easily fight her is the best proof of her strength.

"Kiritsugu, what does Bishop Otto want with us?"

Shirou Emiya followed Kiritsugu Emiya along the wide main road of Meido. The festive atmosphere infected his heart, making him feel a long-lost sense of ease.

Since graduating from the West City Research Institute and being invited by Kiritsugu Emiya to join Passion Roots, he has been following Kiritsugu Emiya around the world on missions, pursuing his dream of becoming a "partner of justice".

Even during the Lunar New Year, we only stay at home for a short time, without having time to enjoy the warmth of family.

"In the eyes of the Sun Moon Empire's court, we are Otto's vanguard, that is, Xu Tianran's confidants."

You are a Soul Saint, and I am a Soul Douluo; we are both high-end combatants belonging to Xu Tianran's faction.

Next, we will discuss the details of the coronation ceremony, and as trusted confidants, we will naturally attend.

Kiritsugu Emiya patiently explained that there weren't many people attending the meeting; the main participants were Xu Tianran, Otto, and Kong Deming.

The others are merely supporting characters, serving to highlight the power of each side.

Even when the father and son were just walking normally, they moved very quickly. It didn't take long for them to arrive at the palace. After showing their royal tokens, they were immediately led to the meeting place.

The meeting was held in the main hall of the Sun Moon Empire. However, the fact that such a small meeting could occupy the highest power center of the empire shows that Xu Tianran's power is no different from that of the emperor.

He was only missing a title to be a true emperor, and that title was exactly what Otto needed.

"Welcome, my two subjects, please take your seats!"

Xu Tianran, dressed in a purple-gold dragon robe, personally stood up to welcome Emiya Shirou and Emiya Kiritsugu, and pointed to the seats to his left. The first seat to his left was Otto, and the seats behind him were all from the Crown Prince's faction.

His attitude gave the father and son face, and also formally declared to everyone that the Emiya father and son were his confidants.

Amidst the envious and jealous gazes of many, Kiritsugu Emiya sat next to Otto with Shirou Emiya.

It was only then that Shirou Emiya saw the person on the right side of the court, and the first one on the right was none other than Kong Deming.

The second seat from the right should normally be Jing Hongchen's seat, but Jing Hongchen didn't come.

Kong Deming, sitting at the head of the table, looked at Jing Hongchen's seat next to him. His usually composed face showed worry, not only about the repercussions after the meeting, but also about an even worse outcome.

This idea had been brewing in his mind for a long time, but he had been subconsciously suppressing it—it was treason. "I still need to see Jing Hongchen properly later; Mingde Hall cannot be allowed to fall into trouble."

Kong Deming sighed, withdrew his gaze, and stood upright, like an immovable mountain.

Kong Deming's side was more complicated, with half of them being level nine soul masters, and some being members of noble factions.

"Has the Master of the Red Dust Hall not come?"

Xu Tianran glanced at the empty seat next to Kong Deming, his brows furrowing slightly. Although he didn't express it in his tone, his eyes clearly showed his displeasure.

Kong Deming stood up, cupped his hands in greeting, and said:

"Your Highness, the Master of the Red Dust Hall is probably unwell. Let's hold the meeting first. I will convey the relevant information to him."

Xu Tianran waved his hand, a suitable smile on his face, and said generously:
"It's alright! Since the Master of the Red Dust Hall is unwell, let's hold a meeting first."

"I will send someone to deliver some medicine to Master Hongchen, hoping for his speedy recovery."

Kong Deming sat down and shook his head inwardly. Even if Jing Hongchen had ten lives, she wouldn't dare to take the medicine given by His Highness the Crown Prince.

Xu Tianran didn't really care whether Jing Hongchen came or not. His becoming emperor was already a foregone conclusion, and he didn't need to please anyone anymore.

Otto cured his disability and even restored his fertility; he had nothing to lack.

As for Jing Hongchen's absence, regardless of whether he is truly ill, we will settle the matter properly with him after he ascends the throne.

However, the reason that the titled Douluo was sick made Xu Tianran want to laugh.

"Prime Minister Otto, could you please describe the general arrangements for the current meeting?"

"My dear ministers, please listen carefully. If there is anything wrong, please point it out and we will discuss it together."

"I don't like a lifeless court where everyone can speak freely."

Xu Tianran looked at Otto with a look of relief and gentleness. Meeting this strategist was truly his blessing. Not only did he cure his illness, but he also cleared away all obstacles for him and helped him consolidate power.

The man's plan was meticulously crafted and flawless; as long as it was executed, the goal would surely be achieved.

The sense of security he felt was stronger than that of ten Soul Master Corps members, as long as he stood behind him.

Although he is now only the regent, he has a stronger grasp of power than the old emperor did at his peak.

It's just a pity that Otto is a man; if he were a woman, Xu Tianran would have married her without hesitation.

Otto stood up with a confident smile, his white coat impeccably tailored, the sun and moon emblem on his chest shining brightly under the soul guide lamp.

"A grand feast naturally needs to be lively."

"I plan to invite the entire continent to Mingdu to participate in the grand ceremony through the O5 conference, and at the ceremony, I can also proclaim the strength of the Sun Moon Empire on the continent."

"Isn't the Continental Advanced Soul Master Tournament in two years?"
I think we can move it forward. This time, it shouldn't be limited to the academy; various factions can also send representatives to participate.

"The victor will not only receive a generous reward, but will also be bestowed a title and receive encouragement from His Majesty on the day of his coronation."

This can increase His Majesty's public profile and public appeal on the mainland.

As soon as Otto finished speaking, someone in the right seat spoke up:
"Prime Minister, there has never been a case of holding the Continental Advanced Soul Master Tournament in advance on the entire continent. Isn't that a bit inappropriate?"

After someone spoke up, voices rose and fell from the right seat, all advising against holding the Continental Advanced Soul Master Tournament ahead of schedule.

Otto opened his arms and said with a smile:

"So this is the first time!"

"The Continental Advanced Soul Master Tournament combined with the coronation ceremony—a double celebration, isn't that a perfect match?"

"Besides, didn't the last All-Continent Advanced Soul Master Tournament also have problems? The finals weren't even held. The rules are never set in stone."

"The age limit for the Continental Advanced Soul Master Tournament is under twenty. Since we are holding it two years earlier, let's move the age limit forward by two years."

"I will discuss the specifics with other members of Congress at the O5 meeting, and they should not refuse."

During this period of maritime invasion, we are more united than ever before, and the entire continent urgently needs a grand gathering to dispel the shadow of war.

Xu Tianran stood up, smiled at the crowd on his right, and said, "I think what the Prime Minister said makes a lot of sense."

"The mainland needs a grand event to dispel the shadow of war, and the rewards for this event will be unprecedentedly generous!"

Seeing that Xu Tianran had spoken, the people on the right dared not continue to object. This was the future emperor; opposing him once was enough to show their loyalty, but to object again would be tantamount to wanting to die.

Those two were never good people.

Xu Tianran smiled and nodded to Otto, then sat down again. Otto took out a list and began to announce the invited forces.

"The list of forces participating in the event is as follows: Shrek Academy, Star Luo National Academy, Di'ao Academy, Zheng Tian Academy, Xilu City Research Academy... Haotian Sect, Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, Tianlong Gate, Dilong Gate, Xuanming Sect."

"Feel free to add your own suggestions!"

Otto's list basically includes all the major powers except for the Southern Empire of Douling.

The court was silent; no one could find a point to add.

“I have something to add.”

Kong Deming, sitting at the head of the table on the right, was the first to speak after the meeting began. His aged but still sharp gaze met Otto's as he calmly said:

"The Body Sect is missing."

"Let them come too."

Otto's lips curled into a smile, and his green eyes gleamed with interest.

(End of this chapter)